If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or polishing your surf skills in Bali’s famous Uluwatu area, this tour offers a fantastic way to do it. With a highly rated instructor known affectionately as Curly, this private surf lesson promises personalized guidance, local insight, and plenty of fun — whether you’re new to surfing or aiming to improve your technique.
What we love most about this experience are the personalized attention from an experienced coach, the chance to surf in Uluwatu’s stunning waters, and the flexibility to accommodate different skill levels. Plus, reviews highlight the warmth and professionalism of Curly himself, making the lessons feel both encouraging and genuinely enjoyable.
A potential consideration is the variable wave conditions—as with all ocean sports, tides and wind change daily, so your experience might differ depending on the day. Still, the prep work Curly does, including tide checks and location scouting, helps maximize your chances of riding waves comfortably.
This surf experience is best suited for beginners eager to learn, intermediate surfers wanting to improve, and adventurous travelers seeking a memorable, authentic Bali activity. Just note that children under 10, non-swimmers, or those with back problems might find it less suitable.
- Key Points
- Why This Surf Lesson Stands Out
- What Does the Tour Include?
- Learning Experience
- The Location: Balangan Beach
- Practical Details
- What To Bring
- Who Will Love This?
- Authentic Experiences from Reviewers
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- More Workshops & Classes in Uluwatu
- More Tour Reviews in Uluwatu
- Still browsing? Here are more Uluwatu experiences we've covered recently
Key Points
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- Personalized coaching tailored to your skill level ensures everyone progresses comfortably.
- Expert guides with nearly 20 years of experience provide safe and insightful lessons.
- Optimal location at Balangan Beach offers great waves and stunning scenery.
- Flexible scheduling and booking options allow for easy planning with full refund options.
- Small group size (up to 5 participants) promotes attention and safety.
- Authentic local vibe with a fun, encouraging instructor who makes learning enjoyable.
Why This Surf Lesson Stands Out

Balinese surf spots are legendary, and Uluwatu is often considered one of the most beautiful and reliable places to learn or improve your surfing. Curly’s 17 Surf School offers a chance to surf with someone who’s been part of Bali’s surf scene for nearly two decades. They focus on personalized instruction, so whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your moves, you’ll get a lesson that respects your goals and pace.
The meeting location at Balangan Beach is carefully chosen. Curly studies tides, wind, and wave conditions beforehand, which means you’ll start your day knowing you’re in good hands. The beach itself is typically less crowded than some of Bali’s busier spots, providing a more relaxed environment to learn or practice.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Uluwatu
What Does the Tour Include?
The tour operates for 1.5 hours, a duration that strikes a smart balance—long enough for genuine learning but not so exhausting that you’ll feel overwhelmed. You’ll receive all necessary equipment, and if you’re lucky, your instructor will take photos and videos during the session, which can be purchased afterward. That means you’ll not only get your waves but also some great memories to take home.
Learning Experience
According to reviews, Curly excels at making beginners feel immediately welcomed and at ease. One reviewer from the UK shared that she and her sister, both first-timers, left the lesson with standing on their boards twice — a huge confidence boost. Reviewers also mention that Curly’s encouraging personality and ability to break down technical skills make a significant difference.
Intermediate and advanced surfers alike praise the tailored feedback, which helps refine specific strokes, turns, or wave reading skills. Multiple reviews highlight how Curly helps overcome fears, especially if bigger or steeper waves are involved, making the water less intimidating over time.
The Location: Balangan Beach
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Balangan Beach is a highlight of this experience. Usually less crowded than other Bali surf spots, it offers beautiful scenery and consistent waves suitable for all levels. Curly’s prior study of tide and wind conditions ensures your lesson is scheduled at the best possible time, maximizing your chances of catching waves.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details
The meeting point’s coordinates are -8.792047500610352, 115.12342071533203. The location is accessible, and the instructor will confirm details once your booking is made.
The tour is flexible—you can reserve your spot and pay later, giving travelers the freedom to adjust plans as needed. Cancelation is free if you do so up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.
What To Bring
Be sure to pack:
– A change of clothes
– Towel
– Sunscreen (preferably reef-safe)
– Water
– A hat for sun protection
Not allowed during the session are smoking, alcohol, or drugs, maintaining a safe environment for all participants.
Who Will Love This?
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This lesson is perfect for beginners eager to learn in a supportive setting, as well as intermediate surfers looking to build confidence or hone specific skills. The small group format ensures ample attention from Curly, making it ideal for those who want a focused learning environment.
Travelers who appreciate local expertise and a fun, relaxed vibe will find this experience especially rewarding. Those seeking a flexible booking with options to cancel or reschedule will also benefit.
Authentic Experiences from Reviewers
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Many reviewers rave about Curly’s friendly and approachable manner. One shared that he “helped me overcome my fears and guided me into a powerful mindset,” illustrating how these lessons go beyond just technical skills. Another mention that “Curly is very professional and nice to learn from,” highlighting the balance of fun and safety he provides.
The location at Balangan Beach also receives praise as a beautiful, less crowded spot, making the entire experience more enjoyable and less intimidating for newcomers.
Final Thoughts
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This Bali surf lesson with Curly’s 17 Surf School offers exceptional value for all skill levels. The personalized instruction, along with the skillful guidance of a seasoned local, creates an environment where beginners can quickly gain confidence and intermediates can improve their technique in a stunning setting.
The small group size and flexible booking options make it accessible and stress-free, while the genuine passion of the instructor ensures you’ll get more than just a lesson—you’ll gain memories and skills that will last well beyond your Bali trip.
For travelers who want an authentic, fun, and educational surf experience in Uluwatu, this tour hits all the right notes.
FAQ
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Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention first-timers being welcomed warmly and quickly gaining confidence. The instructor helps you learn the basics safely and encourages progress at your own pace.
Can I book the lesson at the last minute?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, allowing flexibility. Just be sure to check availability and cancel at least 24 hours in advance if plans change.
What should I bring to the lesson?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water, and a hat. Equipment is provided, and you don’t need to worry about bringing your own surfboard unless you prefer.
Are these lessons suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old might not be ideal, as the experience is geared towards older kids and adults. Non-swimmers and those with back problems are advised against participating.
What is the duration of each lesson?
Each session lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time for theory, practice, and catching waves without feeling rushed.
What makes Balangan Beach special for surfing?
It’s less crowded than other spots, has consistently good waves, and offers a beautiful natural backdrop, making it perfect for learning and enjoying your surf session.
Whether you’re looking to paddle out for the first time or refine your skills in one of Bali’s most picturesque spots, this surf lesson with Curly’s 17 Surf School provides an authentic, enjoyable, and highly rated experience that’s well worth considering.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Workshops & Classes in Uluwatu
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Still browsing? Here are more Uluwatu experiences we've covered recently
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